05/03/2026
👅 Understanding Tongue Tie (Ankyloglossia)
Tongue tie is a condition where the thin piece of tissue under the tongue — called the frenulum — is too tight, short or thick. This can limit how the tongue moves and may affect feeding, speech or oral function.
Tongue tie can occur in babies, children and adults.
👶 In Babies, signs may include:
• Difficulty breastfeeding
• Clicking sounds while feeding
• Poor latch
• Slow weight gain
• Ni**le pain for mom during feeding
🧒 In Children or Adults, signs may include:
• Difficulty sticking the tongue out
• Trouble licking lips
• Speech difficulties (especially L, R, T, D and TH sounds)
• A tongue that looks heart-shaped when sticking out
✂️ Treatment
Tongue tie can often be treated with a simple procedure called a frenotomy. This is a quick procedure that usually takes only a few minutes with minimal bleeding. In babies, feeding often improves immediately afterwards.
For older children or adults, a slightly more involved release called a frenuloplasty may sometimes be recommended.
If you have concerns about feeding difficulties or speech development, it may be worth having it checked.
Contact our practice to schedule an assessment.
☎️ 021 671 0514
📧 reception@drliezlkemp.co.za
📍Bowwood Road, Claremont
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